University of Tasmania
Browse

File(s) under permanent embargo

Dusky dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) feeding tactics and multi-species associations

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 11:12 authored by Vaughn, RL, Shelton, DE, Timm, LL, Leslie WatsonLeslie Watson, Wursig, B
In this study, monthly changes in dusky dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) feeding tactics and multi‐species associations in Admiralty Bay and Current Basin, New Zealand were described from August to November 2005 and from May through August 2006. Concurrent changes in dusky dolphin abundance, prey characteristics, and locations of feeding bouts were examined. Data were collected during systematic surveys and focal follows of dolphin groups. During 335 dolphin feeding bouts (52 observed underwater), data were recorded on number of associated fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri), seabirds, and sharks; dolphin behaviour; prey ball parameters; and locations. Dolphin feeding tactics, multi‐species associations, and locations of feeding bouts were different from May through July than from August to November. From May through July, dolphins fed on mobile prey at depth; from August to November, they herded small schools of fish (including pilchard Sardinops neopilchardus) to the surface. Primarily shearwaters (Puffinus spp.) fed with dolphins from May through July; shearwaters, gannet (Morus serrator), gulls (Larus spp.), and fur seal frequently fed with dolphins from August to November. These intra‐annual differences suggest that changes in prey species or behaviour influence dolphin feeding tactics, and influence which species benefit from feeding with dolphins.

History

Publication title

New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research

Volume

41

Issue

4

Pagination

391-400

ISSN

0028-8330

Department/School

Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies

Publisher

Sir Publishing

Place of publication

Po Box 399, Wellington, New Zealand

Rights statement

© The Royal Society of New Zealand 2007

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Marine biodiversity

Usage metrics

    University Of Tasmania

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC